Class action lawsuits are a powerful way for people to hold companies accountable—especially when many individuals have been harmed in similar ways. But if you’re thinking about joining one or starting your own, you’re probably wondering how long they take.
How Long Do Class Action Suits Take?
The short answer: it varies. Some cases settle in a year or two, while others can take several years to resolve. Understanding the typical timeline of a class action lawsuit and what affects it can help you know what to expect.
Average Class Action Timeline
Most class action lawsuits take two to three years from start to finish. However, some can move faster if the case is simple or a quick settlement is reached. Others—especially those involving appeals or complicated legal questions—can stretch out to five years or more.
Here’s what the process usually looks like:
1. Investigation and Filing (2–6 months)
Attorneys begin by researching the case. This involves reviewing documents, gathering evidence, and interviewing potential plaintiffs. Once the facts are clear, the lawsuit is filed in court.
2. Class Certification (6–18 months)
Before a case becomes a class action, the court must approve it. This is called “class certification.” The court will decide if the lead plaintiff can represent others and whether the group’s claims are similar enough. If the class is certified, the case moves forward on behalf of the group of similarly situated individuals.
3. Discovery (6 months–2 years)
This is the information-gathering phase. Both sides exchange documents, take depositions, and build their cases. In large class actions, this step can take a long time.
4. Settlement or Trial (varies)
Most class actions end in settlement. That means the defendant agrees to pay a certain amount without admitting guilt. If no settlement is reached, the case may go to trial, which can take several more months or even years.
5. Payout and Claims Process (4–12 months)
Once a settlement is approved, class members usually have to submit a claim to receive their share. This process includes notifying class members, reviewing claims, and distributing funds.
What Can Slow a Class Action Down?
Several factors can delay a class action:
- Appeals: If the defendant appeals a decision, it can add a year or more to the case.
- Large class size: More plaintiffs usually means more paperwork and a longer timeline.
- Uncooperative defendants: Companies may try to delay or fight class certification.
- Court schedules: Some courts have heavy backlogs that slow down proceedings.
Is a Class Action Worth the Wait?
Yes—especially if your individual claim is small. Class actions make it easier and more affordable to take on large corporations. While it takes time, joining a class action gives you access to legal support and a chance at compensation you might not otherwise receive.
Let Zimmerman Law Offices Help
If you’ve been affected by corporate misconduct, you don’t have to face it alone. At Zimmerman Law Offices, we help clients throughout Illinois and throughout the country navigate class action lawsuits from start to finish.
Visit our Class Action Lawsuits page to learn more about how we can help, or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to fight for your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.
